President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday underscored the importance of ensuring nutritious food and quality education for children, while commending the Akshaya Patra Foundation for serving five billion meals to support school education across India.
The President was speaking at a commemorative event held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre to mark the foundation’s milestone achievement.
Describing the accomplishment as “remarkable,” President Murmu said the initiative highlights the critical link between nutrition and education in building a strong and developed nation. She noted that the event’s theme – focused on transitioning from a well-nourished and educated India to a developed India – aligns with the country’s vision of achieving ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.
Shared responsibility for children’s future
The President emphasised that ensuring a secure and bright future for children is a collective responsibility, not just that of the government.
“When teachers, parents, social organisations, the corporate sector and all sections of society work together, we lay a strong foundation for the coming generation,” she said.
President Murmu stressed the need to provide children with quality education, proper nutrition, healthcare, and a safe environment, which are essential for their holistic development.
Education as a tool of empowerment
Highlighting the role of education, the President said it is a key instrument for empowerment and social transformation. Schools, she noted, equip children with the skills and values required to face life’s challenges and become responsible citizens.
She praised the Akshaya Patra Foundation for its 25-year-long contribution in addressing malnutrition and encouraging school attendance through mid-day meal services.
Boost from government initiatives
President Murmu also referred to flagship initiatives such as PM POSHAN Scheme, stating that school meal programmes have significantly improved enrolment, attendance, and retention in schools. Studies, she added, have shown improvements in students’ learning outcomes and academic performance due to better nutrition.
She noted that the foundation’s efforts complement the objectives of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all children by 2030.
Investing in the nation’s future
Calling children the “architects of the nation’s future,” the President said that providing them with nutritious food today is an investment in India’s human capital.
“A healthy, educated and energetic generation will play a pivotal role in achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047,” she said.
